Written By: Simrika Joshi
In today’s world, the concept of environmental pollution, such as air and water, is not unknown. Furthermore, it is not a new idea that it causes dangerous effects on our bodies, both physically and mentally. Although numerous studies have been conducted on these physiological effects, much of the research done on the psychological effects are unvisited by the public. It is integral to shed light on the environmental pollution which influences our psychological health.
As a UNC student, I have experienced academic stress and social pressure which have both had an impact on my mental health. However, I recently discovered that environmental pollution also has a severe impact on mental health, something I had never considered before.
We all know that pollution causes negative effects on our bodies. The associations between pollution and physical health conditions such as respiratory and cardiovascular disorders are mostly well-known by the public. However, although research on the links between pollution and mental health has been in progress for decades, the public knowledge of these correlations is not well-established [4].
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 99% of the entire pollution is exposed to unclean air, meaning that the negative impacts of pollution on human cognition are likely affecting us [4].
Associations between Environmental Pollution and Mental Health disorders
In the early 1900s, a study conducted on patients admitted to the Chicago asylums found that rates of psychosis were higher in patients who lived in cities. This led to further research on the correlation between pollution and mental health disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and dementia. The research confirmed the hypothesis that there is indeed a correlation between pollution and mental health disorders, according to health journalist Kate Baggaley [3].
Moreover, a longitudinal observational study conducted by Afif Khan and his team of researchers found that exposure to air pollution in urban areas, specifically in Denmark and the United States, was significantly associated with increased risk of psychiatric disorders: depression, schizophrenia, bipolar, and personality disorders [2]. These risks were significantly higher when analyzing the developing brain.
Meyer-Lindenberg and Matilda van de Bosch, both environmental researchers at the University of British Columbia, recently published their review on the factors that contribute to depression. They found that toxic chemicals like bisphenol A, commonly present in plastics, pollutants, and even pollen can lead to mental health issues. Interestingly, they also found that these factors are more prevalent in cities with better healthcare and education resources [1]. I find it quite bizarre as one would expect these cities to have fewer mental health issues with these resources present.
When looking at scientific studies such as these, researchers concluded that pollution affects the regions of the brain that regulate emotions, focusing on the hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex. More than 73% of the studies reported increased mental health symptoms after being exposed to increased levels of air pollution [5].
Future Plans: What can we do?
Pollution is a major environmental concern around the world that cannot be conquered quickly. While there is significant research on the harmful effects of pollution, there is a lack of large-scale studies exploring the impacts on mental health. To draw more definitive conclusions on this connection, a nationwide study is necessary. By implementing policies and prioritizing funding for research in this area, we can develop effective solutions to address this ongoing problem.
Furthermore, recognizing the significant impact pollution can have on mental health, and shedding light on this information is essential. According to Environmental Health News, there is a lack of awareness that “air pollution may increase the severity of mental illness, and thereby substantially increase the social and financial burdens in communities” [4]. Due to the insurgency, healthcare systems aren’t aware of the severity of the issue. So, bringing this to light is integral for a healthy mind and body.
References:
1. Van Den Bosch M, Meyer-Lindenberg A. Environmental exposures and depression: biological mechanisms and epidemiological evidence. Annu Rev Public Health. 2019;40(1):239-259. doi:10.1146/annurev-publhealth-040218-044106
2. Khan A, Plana-Ripoll O, Antonsen S, et al. Environmental pollution is associated with increased risk of psychiatric disorders in the US and Denmark. Ioannidis JPA, ed. PLoS Biol. 2019;17(8):e3000353. doi:10.1371/journal.pbio.3000353
3. Baggaley K. City life damages mental health in ways we’re just starting to understand. Popular Science. Published May 13, 2019. Accessed March 17, 2024. https://www.popsci.com/physical-surroundings-cities-mental-illness/
4. Bishop S. Air pollution & mental health: What are its effects? Published November 9, 2022. Accessed March 17, 2024. https://www.clarity.io/blog/air-quality-cognition-and-mental-health-how-air-pollution-impacts-the-brain
5. Zundel CG, Ryan P, Brokamp C, et al. Air pollution, depressive and anxiety disorders, and brain effects: A systematic review. NeuroToxicology. 2022;93:272-300. doi:10.1016/j.neuro.2022.10.011
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